CEO of Rady Children's Hospital to Retire

Kathleen Sellick, who is retiring as president and CEO of Rady Children's Hospital - San Diego

Kathleen Sellick, president and CEO of Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego, will retire after eight years at the helm, citing medical reasons.

Sellick suffered a horseback riding accident in August 2012 that led to her taking medical leave in November 2013 as a result of complications, according to a news release.

Meg Norton, who is Rady Children’s chief administrative and operating officer, and Chief Medical Officer Donald Kearns will be acting co-CEOs. Kearns is serving as acting president, with Norton as executive vice president. The pair began performing their split roles when Sellick began her medical leave, the news release said.

Sellick, who was named Woman of the Year by San Diego Magazine for 2011, is credited with several accomplishments while at Rady Children’s Hospital:

• Consistently high rankings by U.S. News & World Report

• Establishing a Medical Practice Foundation to help align and improve the quality and delivery of care and enhance research

• Establishing an alliance with Children’s Hospital Orange County to share and enhance best practices

• Expanding services into Southern Riverside County

• Opening a specialized cardiac unit and creating infrastructure for a new heart transplant program

“Kathleen leaves behind an incredible legacy of service and accomplishment,” said David Hale, chairman of the board of trustees.